B.S. in Chemistry and B.S. in Mathematics, 2022 Career: National Institutes of Health Post-Baccalaureate Research Fellow (2022-2024); M.D. Candidate at Georgetown University School of Medicine (Began Fall 2024)

Advisor: Yulia Karpeshina

During my first week as a bright-eyed freshman, I had initially registered myself as a neuroscience major. A week later, I switched to chemistry. One of my student mentors and old friend, Kenneth Davis (a recent 2024 graduate from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine), sat with me as I struggled to plan my four-year course curriculum. Mathematics was always one of my favorite subjects, but I had no idea that double-majoring was even a choice... or possible. Kenneth -- of course a double-major in chemistry and mathematics -- assured me that it was, and I never looked back.

What I love about UAB's mathematics department is its close-knit community and students-help-students culture. When I entered sophomore year, I took the infamous proof-based Advanced Calculus course for two semesters, where undergraduate and graduate students alike presented their arguments on a mathematical theory under the scrutiny of our professor and peers. Although the graduate students seemed terrifying at the time, especially when they found flaws in my proofs, I sought their mentorship and advice to grow myself as a critical thinker. This Socratic teaching methodology challenged me to confidently defend my work via evidence-based solutions but also set strong foundations for my leadership roles as UAB's Undergraduate Student Government President, Ms. UAB, and now as a Georgetown Medical Student. My experience here honed my problem-solving skills and resilience, qualities I am certain UAB will continue to foster in its future leaders and thinkers.